dubai yacht crew agency

Yacht Crew Agency / Work on a yacht in Dubai: everything you need to know

Work on a yacht in Dubai: everything you need to know

• July 28, 2023

Welcome to the world of yachting in Dubai, where luxury and adventure collide on the high seas. If you’ve ever dreamed of working on a yacht, navigating pristine waters, and providing exceptional hospitality to esteemed guests, you’re in for an exhilarating journey. ​At Yacht Crew Agency, we take pride in being the premier recruitment agency for yacht enthusiasts, connecting passionate individuals with top-notch opportunities in the yacht industry.

Exploring Dubai’s Glamorous Yacht Scene

Dubai’s yachting scene is nothing short of spectacular, boasting sparkling marinas filled with opulent yachts of various sizes and styles. From elegant sailing vessels to sleek superyachts, each yacht has its unique charm, making Dubai a paradise for yachting enthusiasts.

Your Path to Yachting Excellence

Discovering your ideal yacht role.

Whether you are an experienced mariner seeking new opportunities or a newcomer eager to embark on an exciting career, we have a range of positions available to suit your preferences:

Yacht Captain: Commanding the High Seas

Yacht Captain positions offer a thrilling opportunity for experienced mariners to take the helm and lead a yacht on unforgettable journeys. A Yacht Captain requires not only technical expertise but also exceptional leadership and decision-making skills, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of guests.

Deckhand: The Backbone of Yacht Operations

For individuals who enjoy hands-on work and the open sea, our Deckhand roles are a perfect fit. Deckhands play a crucial role in maintaining the yacht’s exterior, assisting with water sports, and ensuring smooth operations throughout the voyage.

Steward/Stewardess: Masters of Hospitality

If you possess a flair for hospitality and a warm, welcoming demeanor, our Steward/Stewardess positions are tailor-made for you. As part of the guest services team, you’ll create a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere on board, ensuring an unforgettable experience for guests.

Chef: Elevating Culinary Delights

For culinary enthusiasts with a passion for exquisite cuisine, our Chef roles are a delectable opportunity. Yacht chefs have the privilege of crafting culinary masterpieces to tantalize the taste buds of discerning guests.

Engineer: Ensuring Smooth Sailing

For technically inclined individuals, our Engineer positions offer the chance to maintain the yacht’s mechanical and electrical systems, ensuring a seamless yachting experience for all on board.

Skills and Qualifications Required for Yacht Jobs

Working on a yacht demands a unique set of skills and qualifications that go beyond sailing knowledge:

• Passion for the Sea : A genuine love for the ocean and yachting is the driving force behind a successful career in the industry.
• Adaptability and Resilience : The yachting world can be unpredictable, requiring crew members to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances and weather conditions.
• Team Player : Collaboration and effective communication with fellow crew members are essential for a harmonious and safe yacht environment.
• High-Level Service : Those in guest-facing roles must possess exceptional hospitality skills and a dedication to providing top-notch service.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Yacht crew members often encounter challenges that require quick thinking and resourcefulness to resolve.
• Professionalism and Discretion : Working in a high-profile industry demands a professional demeanor and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Perks of Working in the Yacht Industry

Venturing into the world of yachting in Dubai offers an array of alluring perks that make it a dream job for many:

• Travel Opportunities : Yacht crew members get to explore breathtaking destinations worldwide, from the azure waters of the Mediterranean to the exotic beauty of the Caribbean.
• Competitive Salaries and Tips : Working on luxury yachts often comes with competitive salaries, plus the possibility of receiving generous tips from satisfied guests.
• Lavish Lifestyle : Interacting with affluent guests and living a life of luxury onboard adds a touch of glamour to the daily routine.
• Unique Experiences : From witnessing stunning sunsets at sea to engaging in thrilling watersports, yacht crew members enjoy unforgettable moments.
• Career Growth : The yacht industry offers excellent opportunities for advancement, with hard work and dedication leading to higher-ranking positions.
• Camaraderie : Living and working closely with fellow crew members fosters lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories.

Life on Board: What to Expect

Working on a yacht is a unique and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its challenges and responsibilities. Onboard life is a blend of hard work and leisure, with crew members dedicated to providing exceptional service while ensuring the smooth operation of the vessel. ​Expect to work long hours during guest charters, as delivering top-notch hospitality is a priority. However, the camaraderie among crew members and the chance to explore breathtaking destinations make it all worthwhile.

Gaining Yachting Experience: Entry-Level Opportunities

If you’re new to the yachting industry, securing your first position may seem daunting. However, there are entry-level opportunities available for passionate individuals willing to learn and grow. ​Positions such as Deckhand, Steward/Stewardess, and Junior Chef are often open to candidates with limited experience. Showing dedication, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for yachting can pave the way for future advancements in your career.

Professional Training and Certifications

To enhance your chances of landing a coveted yacht job, consider investing in professional training and certifications. The Standard Training and Certification of Watchkeepers (STCW) is a fundamental requirement for most yacht crew positions, ensuring that you possess the necessary skills to handle emergencies and ensure the safety of all onboard. Additional certifications in hospitality, cuisine, water sports, and sailing can also add value to your profile.

A Day in the Life of a Yacht Crew Member

The daily routine of a yacht crew member varies depending on their role and the yacht’s schedule. For guest-facing positions like Steward/Stewardess and Chef, mornings often begin with preparing for breakfast service, ensuring the yacht is immaculate, and attending to guest needs. ​Deckhands may be responsible for maintaining the yacht’s exterior, assisting with watersports, and preparing for upcoming activities. Regardless of the role, flexibility and adaptability are key traits, as the dynamic nature of yachting often requires crew members to switch tasks seamlessly.

Maintaining Safety and Security

The safety and security of all onboard are paramount in the yachting industry. Crew members undergo rigorous safety training to handle emergencies and follow strict protocols to ensure the well-being of guests and colleagues. Regular safety drills, such as fire and abandon ship drills, are conducted to keep crew members prepared for any eventuality.

Understanding Crew Hierarchies

Yacht crew operate within a well-defined hierarchy, with clear roles and responsibilities for each position. The Captain is the ultimate authority on the yacht, responsible for navigation, safety, and overall operations. Reporting to the Captain, other crew members fulfill their designated roles to ensure the yacht runs smoothly and efficiently.

Embracing Diversity in the Yachting World

The yachting industry thrives on diversity, with crew members hailing from various cultural backgrounds and countries. Embracing diversity not only enriches the onboard experience for both crew members and guests but also fosters a sense of global camaraderie and understanding. ​Working with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds allows crew members to broaden their horizons and develop valuable interpersonal skills.

Navigating Yacht Seasons in Dubai

Dubai’s yachting season typically aligns with the cooler months, from October to April, when the weather is mild and perfect for cruising. During this time, Dubai attracts a flurry of yacht charters, events, and regattas, offering ample opportunities for yacht crew to showcase their skills and hospitality. ​The summer months, from May to September, bring scorching temperatures and higher humidity, prompting many yachts to move to other regions for the season.

Industry Insights: Yacht Trends in Dubai

Dubai’s yachting industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging regularly. The demand for eco-friendly and sustainable yachting practices is on the rise, with an increasing number of yachts adopting greener technologies and practices. ​Additionally, themed charters and experiential cruises are gaining popularity, offering guests unique and immersive yachting experiences.

Building Lasting Connections: Guest Relations

One of the highlights of working on a yacht is the opportunity to interact with high-profile and discerning guests. Building lasting connections with guests is essential for ensuring their comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey. ​Crew members who excel in guest relations often receive praise and accolades, leading to repeat bookings and an excellent reputation in the industry.

To conclude

Working on a yacht in Dubai offers a unique and rewarding career path for those with a passion for the sea and a flair for hospitality. From sailing through the picturesque waters of the Arabian Gulf to providing unparalleled service to discerning guests, the yachting industry promises adventure, growth, and unforgettable experiences. Interesting in working in the yacht industry? Find out our every jobs in Yachting by clicking on the button down below 

Frequently Asked Questions

To work on a yacht in Dubai, you’ll need relevant marine certifications, such as STCW, depending on the role you’re applying for. Additionally, proficiency in English and hospitality skills are highly valued.

Salaries in the yacht industry vary based on your role, experience, and the size of the yacht. However, it’s not uncommon for crew members to earn competitive salaries and receive generous tips.

While prior experience can be advantageous, some entry-level positions welcome newcomers. Passion, a willingness to learn, and the right attitude can go a long way in securing a position on a yacht.

Working hours on a yacht can be demanding, especially during guest charters. Crew members often follow a rotational schedule to ensure round-the-clock service.

Yes, the yacht industry offers excellent opportunities for career growth. Hard work, dedication, and a track record of professionalism can lead to promotions and higher-ranking positions.

By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. 

Hire and Find Experienced Yacht Crew staff

This form is for employers who are looking to hire crew only.

Looking for a job ?

Clients' section

You want to talk to a recruiter to help you personalise your recruitment. Choose a date from the list of available appointments and let us guide you.

Click one of our contacts below to chat on WhatsApp

Social Chat is free, download and try it now here!

Opportunities don't happen, you create them

Looking for work, need household staff, current openings.

• Apply Deck/Engineer • Private • South of France | 35m S/Y South of France
• Apply Captain • Private • Spain | 17m SY Spain
• Apply Junior deckhand • Shipyard contract • Spain | 35m S/Y Spain
• Apply Watchkeeper • Private/Charter • Saint-Tropez |40m MY Saint-Tropez
• Apply Chief Stewardess • Private • SOF | 55m M/Y South of France
• Apply Deckhand • Private • Med|30m M/Y France

More Job Offers

Trust experts, Save time and money.

Founded in 2007, Marinescence had been carefully gaining experience and became one of the leading players in yacht crew recruitment . Operating on a worldwide platform we collected extensive database of candidates which allows us to comply with any specific request of our valued customers fast. Our recruitment process is based on trust and knowledge. We have helped thousands of people to find their dream job and to make career on board. Our yachting background allowed us to expand our scope and to offer recruitment of domestic staff to our clients anywhere in the world.

The Marinescence Method

A general overview of our recruitment process.

All the recruiters of our agency are permanently on watch on the whole yachting market and it main areas of influence.

We understand well the needs of our clients and adapt fast to the changing requirements.

We give advices in order to specify requirements for the desired profile.

We stay in touch with our clients not only during recruitment process but also throughout all the contract period.

Success based on trust and reliance

Since 2007 Marinescence offers recruitment and HR services in yacht industry. Every year more and more customers all over the world trust in us.

Years in the business

Qualified and registered candidates

Happy customers

Emails sent by our consultants

Hours on the phone

Hours of interviews

Want to transfer your salary back home?

Discover Marinescence's solution for fast, reliable same-day money transfer

Get in touch and let us know how we can help

Our office is open from Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm